Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) Degree Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Study for the Bachelor of General Studies Degree Exam. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your test!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

Which ethical approach concerns itself primarily with the outcomes of actions?

Deontological reasoning
Utilitarian reasoning
Virtue ethics
Rights-based reasoning

The correct answer is: Utilitarian reasoning

The focus of utilitarian reasoning is primarily on the outcomes or consequences of actions. This ethical approach posits that the rightness or wrongness of an action is determined by its ability to produce the greatest good for the greatest number of people. Utilitarianism evaluates actions based on their results, emphasizing overall happiness and well-being as the ultimate goals. This perspective encourages decision-makers to consider the impacts of their actions on all affected parties, aiming for maximized positive outcomes. In contrast, deontological reasoning concentrates on adherence to moral rules and duties rather than the consequences. Virtue ethics centers on the character and virtues of the moral agent, emphasizing moral excellence as a foundation for ethical behavior. Rights-based reasoning prioritizes the entitlements and liberties of individuals, focusing on maintaining and respecting individuals' rights regardless of the outcomes. These differing focuses highlight why utilitarian reasoning is specifically aligned with a results-oriented ethical framework.